Actually, this former accountant was the chief architect of Hilco’s acquisitions, most notably the Borders bookshop chain and Allied Carpets. The London-based company also holds offices in Ireland, Germany, Spain and South Africa. As a 20% shareholder in Hilco UK, Paul McGowan saw a rise in his net worth after Hilco’s profits jumped 82% to £16.9 million in 2009 with turnover up 96% to £95.8 million.